Rosh Internal Medicine Boost Practice Exam

What symptom most often accompanies myocardial infarction on EKG changes?

1. Elevated ST segments

2. Shortened QT intervals

3. Inverted P waves

4. Regular heart rhythm

The correct answer is: Elevated ST segments

The symptom that most often accompanies myocardial infarction on EKG changes is elevated ST segments. This elevation is indicative of myocardial injury and is one of the hallmark signs of an acute myocardial infarction (AMI). During an infarction, the affected myocardial tissue becomes ischemic and does not conduct electrical impulses properly, leading to changes in the ST segment of the EKG. The elevation reflects the electrocardiographic manifestation of the damage occurring in the heart muscle and typically signifies that there is a lack of blood flow to that region. Other symptoms or signs on an EKG can accompany different heart conditions, but elevated ST segments are perhaps the most characteristic and clinically significant finding during an active myocardial infarction. This finding prompts further evaluation and immediate intervention, such as reperfusion therapy. Thus, recognizing ST segment elevation is crucial to diagnosing and managing myocardial infarction effectively.